Motion Sickness in Puppies: Helping Your Little Traveler Feel Better 

If you’ve ever noticed motion sickness in puppies turning a fun car ride into a messy ordeal, you’re not alone. Many young dogs struggle with nausea and uneasiness when traveling, but the good news is that most grow out of it — and in the meantime, there are plenty of ways to make trips more comfortable.


puppy at the slighly open window of a car

Why Do Puppies Get Motion Sickness?

Puppies are still developing in all kinds of ways, and their inner ear — which controls balance — may not be fully mature. That’s why motion sickness in puppies is often more common than in adult dogs. Add in excitement, nervousness, or an unfamiliar environment, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an upset tummy.

Common signs include:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Yawning or whining
  • Restlessness
  • Vomiting 


Easing Motion Sickness in Puppies

Keep Rides Short and Sweet

Start with very short car trips and gradually work up to longer drives. This helps your puppy get used to the movement without feeling overwhelmed.Provide Comfort and Familiarity

Bring along a favorite blanket, toy, or even an item that smells like home. Familiar scents help reduce stress, which can cut down on motion sickness for puppies.Ventilation is Key

A well-ventilated car makes a big difference. Cracking the windows for fresh air (safely, of course) can reduce nausea.Feeding Tips

Try not to feed your puppy a big meal right before a ride. A light snack, or waiting until after the trip, often helps avoid upset stomachs.

motion sickness relief for dogs
NausX Anti-Motion Sickness and Nausea Relief for Dogs

Do Certain Breeds Get Motion Sickness More?

Motion sickness in puppies can happen in any breed, but it seems to pop up more often in dogs with:

  • Long ears and droopy faces (like Basset Hounds and Bloodhounds) — their ear structure may make balance trickier.
  • Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus — these breeds are more prone to breathing issues, which can add to car stress.
  • Anxious or sensitive breeds like Shelties, Border Collies, and some smaller toy breeds may simply be more nervous travelers.

That said, any puppy can experience motion sickness, regardless of breed.


Should You Talk to Your Vet?

If your puppy's motion sickness doesn’t improve with age or simple adjustments, check in with your vet. They may recommend safe medications, calming aids, or additional tips for keeping travel enjoyable.

One medication, Cerenia, is approved by the FDA for dogs for vomiting and for motion sickness and it is said to be very effective. Check with your veterinarian to see if would be right for your puppy.

A natural remedy for dog car sickness is ginger which has been known for a long time to settle an upset tummy, as well as being very effective for motion sickness in dogs and people. 

Here's an easy ginger treat recipe your pup can enjoy even when he's not on a car ride.
Ingredients you'll need:

  • 2 cups oat flour (or *whole wheat) 
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger  (or 1-1/2 teaspoons powdered ginger)
  • 1 tsp. raw honey 
  • 1/2 cup pure unsweetened pumpkin puree    

*To substitute whole wheat flour, use about 1-3/4 cups.

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Whisk egg, pumpkin and ginger together.
  • Stir in the oatmeal flour and combine to form a dough.
    *If dough is too dry, add more pumpkin, or a little bit of flour if too wet. 
  • Roll out dough to 1/4” thick, then cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. 

For crunchier treats, put them back in the "turned off" oven for a few hours or overnight.  
Store in an airtight container.


The Good News

Most puppies outgrow motion sickness as their bodies mature. With patience, positive experiences, and a little preparation, your furry co-pilot will likely become a confident road-tripper before you know it.


Puppy Motion Sickness FAQs

Do puppies outgrow motion sickness?

Yes, many puppies outgrow it as their inner ear develops and they gain more travel experience.

Can I give my puppy medication for motion sickness?

Only with your vet’s approval. There are safe options, but never give human medication without guidance.

How can I prevent my puppy from throwing up in the car?

Keep trips short at first, avoid feeding a full meal right before driving, and make the car a positive space with treats and toys.

Are some puppies just bad travelers?

Some may always be a little uneasy in the car, but with patience, training, and sometimes vet support, almost every dog can learn to handle rides better.

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